The latest Regional Conference of Isle of Man Chartered Institute of Insurance and Financial Services/ Personal Finance Society (PFS) was recently held at the Claremont Hotel, Douglas. PFS is the professional body for the financial planning profession in the UK. The society recently made the Isle of Man its 27th region with 126 local members. The Isle of Man Insurance and Financial Services Institute is a group of industry professionals that volunteer their spare time to offer a range of key benefits to members in the Isle of Man. The Conference was sponsored by Jupiter Asset Management. Speakers included Sharon Sutton of Thornton Associates, Paul Thompson, of Canada Life, James Crossley &, Dave Brown of Jupiter, Terry Bateman of … and local social media guru, Derek Richardson,. Sharon gave an introduction to the conference informing attendees that the CII/PFS have been awarded status in the UK thus they can verify CPD in line with regulatory body requirements and a Statement of Professional Standing,, akin to a ‘practicing certificate’. Sharon commented: “It was fantastic to see such an accomplished array of quality speakers here in the Isle of Man. PFS is here to serve hundreds of professionals on the Island who work in the Financial Services sector and it is a great asset to be one of the member regions and to be host to another Isle of Man regional conference. We look forward to future events to help support local individuals within the industry.” Tax planning in the current environment was presented by Mr Thompson, followed by Mr Crossley and Mr Brown who discussed Multi Asset investing in a Globalised World. Mr Richardson talked about the use of social media and traditional networking to enhance your business and its marketing. Mr Bateman presented on pensions, covering the maximum permitted annual contribution with tax relief, the removal of the need to annuitise at age 75 and the level and operation of the lifetime allowance. Mr. Bateman remarked: “This session is essential learning for all IFAs operating in the pensions transfer field; a complex and ever changing arena, who are keen to demonstrate their commitment to their clients and profession by obtaining higher level qualifications.” The next PFS regional event is 28th September 2011, 8:30 for 9am at the Claremont Hotel, Douglas. - Ends -